Mark Carney meeting Charles when he was the prince of Wales (Kirsty Wrigglesworth/PA) (Image: PA Archive/PA Images)
The King has reportedly penned a private letter to Mark Carney as he takes the reins as Canada’s new Prime Minister. Sworn in at a ceremony in Ottawa on Friday, Mr Carney pledged his loyalty to Charles, who is also the King of Canada, and later lauded Canada’s “proud British heritage” in his address.
Carney, the ex-Bank of England boss, remarked during his oration: “The ceremony we just witnessed reflects the wonder of a country built on the bedrock of three peoples, indigenous, French and British.” He continued: “The Office of the Governor General links us through the crown and across time to Canada’s proud British heritage.”
Mr Carney disclosed plans to discuss trade, economic and security matters with both France’s president and UK Prime Minister Sir , during an upcoming visit to Paris and London “in a few days”. When asked by journalists, Mr Carney responded: “I received the questions on a trip to Paris and London in a few days, I received an invitation from the president of France to discuss a variety of issues, both economic, commercial to reinforce those relationships, also issues related to security in Europe, in Canada.”
Prime Minister Mark Carney was sworn in at a ceremony at Rideau Hall in Ottawa. (Image: PA)
He added: “Similar discussions will be had with the Prime Minister in the United Kingdom. This is sensible.”
Carney continued: “Security is a priority for this government, reinforcing our security, as is diversifying our trading and commercial relationships, of course, with both Europe and the United Kingdom, there are many opportunities.”
Earlier this week, King Charles met with Canadian parliamentary officers at Buckingham Palace, where they reportedly discussed pressing national and international issues.
The 30-minute meeting, which had been scheduled for some time, coincided with US President ‘s threats of severe economic repercussions for Canada amidst a volatile trade dispute, including comments urging Canada to become America’s 51st state.
In his Friday speech, Mr Carney stated that Canada will “never, ever, in any way shape or form be part of the United States”.
The 59-year-old is set to succeed Justin Trudeau, who stepped down in January but stayed in office until the Liberal Party chose a new leader. It’s widely anticipated that he will call a General Election imminently.
Charles had previously met with Mr Trudeau at the beginning of March, following an encounter with Ukrainian President at Sandringham.
The King received praise for showing unity with Mr Zelensky, especially after the Ukrainian leader’s tense meeting with Mr Trump in the Oval Office.
When Charles and Mr Trudeau met on March 3, the discussions were believed to have focused on Canada’s challenges with the US and support for .